Three people were hospitalized after their car became lodged underneath a tractor-trailer on eastbound I-70 near Hanley. Authorities have not yet provided details on the severity of their injuries or what led to the crash. The Missouri State Highway Patrol continues to investigate.
Whenever I hear about crashes like this, I immediately think about visibility and the relative sizes of the vehicles involved. Cars ending up under tractor-trailers is a particularly dangerous scenario, often raising questions about whether the truck driver made an error or if a mechanical issue was a factor.
Was the Truck Driver Fatigued or Distracted?
One of the critical questions in this case is whether the truck driver was paying full attention to the road. Long-haul truckers often work under tight schedules, and fatigue can set in if they’ve been driving for extended periods without adequate rest. Investigators will likely review the driver’s hours-of-service logs to determine if they were compliant with federal rest requirements. Distraction is another factor that could come into play, so authorities may want to examine the driver’s cell phone data as well.
Could Mechanical Issues Have Been a Factor?
Another key question is whether a mechanical issue with the tractor-trailer played a role in the crash. If the truck came to a sudden or unexpected stop, it’s important to determine whether brake failure, engine trouble, or shifting cargo contributed. Investigators should examine the truck’s maintenance records, brake system, and onboard diagnostics to rule out any potential malfunctions.
What Evidence Should Be Collected?
To get a full picture of what happened, investigators should gather and analyze multiple pieces of evidence. Surveillance footage from nearby traffic cameras or businesses could help clarify the events leading up to the collision. The semi-truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM) may provide data on the truck's speed, braking, and steering inputs before impact. Examining the condition of the truck’s underride guards, lights, and reflective markings can help determine whether the vehicle met visibility and safety requirements. Additionally, statements from eyewitnesses, first responders, and those involved in the crash will be crucial in understanding whether distraction, fatigue, or mechanical factors played a role.
Why a Full Investigation Is Important
For those injured in this crash, understanding exactly what happened is critical. Investigators will likely review all available evidence to determine whether the truck driver’s actions, vehicle positioning, or mechanical factors played a role. In my experience, underride crashes are often more complex than they appear at first glance, making a thorough investigation essential to getting a clear picture of the events.